Life After High School.

Most graduating high school students spend their year in stress, worrying about the rest of their lives. Where are they going to University or College? Should they even go on to a post secondary school? Is it better to leave home or stay here?

Many thoughts and questions go through senior-student's minds. We are left with the notion that our lives are to be mapped out in time to apply for post seconadary school. After all, today's society requires all workers, even those of part time employment, to be enrolled in school or have obtained a high school diploma. Those with only the requirement of a high school diploma usually include those being payed at a minimum wage standard.

But, is University the right choice for all? Many student's work ethic does not lie within books and tests. Their interests and talents could be in a field that does not require a University degree, but a trade or skill handed down through life experiences. If a student were to not attend University or College and chose to travel and work within a field they are familiar with, would this set them up for any less of a life then those who do attend?

I am not saying post secondary education is the wrong choise or should be tossed aside, rather, I am saying a life without it is not impossible. Should we be forced to choose a life path at the ripe age of eighteen? We are so young, and have yet to experience all there is. Our knowledge of the wide world is little. Taking history or world issues in high school is only a small glimpse into what is really out there.

Tuitions for post secondary are causing students to be in debt for the begining years of their lives. If we are expected to spend the money to learn the skills to support our future jobs, should we not take the time to plan carefully and know our money is not being wasted on courses, in which you later find you don't like?

To chose a career at such a young age, in which you are unsure of, could be setting yourself up for a life of unsatisfying work. Why not take the time after high school to travel, see the world and experience cultures that will broaden your horizons, or work at many different jobs to gain the experience and knowledge of what you like and don't like.

Once you finish post secondary school, most are thrown into their life's career right away. Then comes the time management,settling down, and before you know it you are saying 'I'll do all the things I don't have time now to do, once I am retired.' Life flies by and before you know it, you could be looking back on a life filled, with a lot of "what if's..." Someone once asked me, "When you die and someone goes to write your obituary, what do you want it to include?" Post secondary school is not the only path you can take after high school.